As the summer sun sets and the Texas heat gives way to cool evening breezes, Shakespeare Dallas is ready to ignite the outdoor theater scene with its 53rd annual Shakespeare in the Park Festival.
This year, audiences can expect a delightful mix of drama and humor, featuring two contrasting summer productions: one a tragic tale from Shakespeare himself, and the other an amusing comedy from Oscar Wilde.
Both captivating performances take place at the picturesque Samuell-Grand Amphitheater in Dallas, ensuring a picturesque backdrop for an enjoyable outing.
Opening the festival is Oscar Wilde’s iconic play, The Importance of Being Earnest, which runs from June 13 to July 18. This comedy, charmingly called “a trivial play for serious people,” tells the story of two charming bachelors who lead double lives to escape the burdens of societal expectations. Their escapades lead them into romantic entanglements filled with whimsical misadventures.
For a bonus attraction, the schedule aligns perfectly with the Fourth of July fireworks display at nearby Fair Park. Festival-goers will have a prime view of the fireworks during an extended intermission, ensuring a festive atmosphere.
Meanwhile, running concurrently from June 20 to July 20 is Shakespeare’s dark and thought-provoking tragedy, Othello. This production reimagines the classic tale by setting it in a haunting version of the 1990s, within an alternate history where the Venetian empire holds remarkable dominance in political, military, and economic spheres. The play explores themes of jealousy and betrayal, following Othello, a formidable general who unknowingly has made a deadly enemy in his resentful servant, Iago.
As summer gives way to fall, audiences can look forward to The Taming of the Shrew, taking place from September 19 to October 19. This adaptation transforms the classic tale into a vibrant story set in the Texas borderlands of the 1880s. Presented in both Spanish and English, the production showcases the clash between the strong-willed Katherine and her unconventional suitor, Petruchio. As their tumultuous relationship unfolds, audiences will witness the lengths to which Petruchio must go to win Katherine’s affection and the dynamic relationship between the couples.
For those planning to attend, the summer curtain time for these shows is set at 8:30 p.m., while fall performances begin at 8 p.m. Individual ticket prices range from $15 to $20, and subscription packages are available for those looking to enjoy multiple shows, priced between $55 and $200. As a consideration for driving patrons, parking at the venue will cost $7.
In addition to the splendid offerings from Shakespeare Dallas, theater enthusiasts can also explore a variety of other theatrical productions throughout the summer. Highlights include The Lion King, running from June 4 to July 3 at the Music Hall at Fair Park, and Sherlock Holmes and the Adventure of the Fallen Soufflé, showing from June 12 to June 29 at Stage West Theatre in Fort Worth.
Further performances include Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat from June 13 to July 13 at the Wyly Theatre in Dallas, and The Billy Club Puppets from June 20 to July 13 at Hip Pocket Theatre in Fort Worth.
Lastly, don’t miss Shakespeare in Hollywood, taking place from August 15 to August 24 at the Campus Theater in Denton. With ticket prices for these productions ranging from $20 to $99, there’s something for everyone ready to embrace the vibrant theater landscape this summer.
Make sure to check the Go See DFW calendar for additional shows and details on these exciting summer offerings.
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